News

Volunteer Recognition Awards recipients announced

By Gianni Francis

May 19, 2022

Volunteer recipients: Exceptional members of the community and organisations were recognised for their contributions across the region.

Six members of the local community and three organisations have been recognised by Greater Shepparton City Council for their service to the community.

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The Volunteer Recognition Awards ceremony, held at Riverlinks Eastbank on Monday, May 16, saw 39 nominations of outstanding people who volunteered their time to various organisations, service clubs and sporting groups across the region.

Awards were presented for six categories, with three special commendations also awarded.

Award recipients:

Young Volunteer: Denni Bathman.

Adult Volunteer: Furaha Baguma.

Adult Volunteer Special Commendation: Troy McKindley.

Team Volunteer: Shepparton Search and Rescue Squad.

Long Serving Volunteer: William (Bill) Brown.

Long Serving Volunteer Special Commendation: Sam Atukorala.

Pandemic Response Individual: Amy De Paola.

Pandemic Response Team: GV Cares.

Pandemic Response Team Special Commendation: Greater Shepparton Unites in Voice.

“While every nomination we received was deserving of an award, the winners were carefully selected for their impressive displays of dedication to their community over a number of years,” City of Greater Shepparton Mayor Kim O’Keeffe said.

“These awards recognise that their effort and commitment are acknowledged and appreciated.”

Following the community response to the pandemic, council added a one-off Pandemic Response category to the awards for both individual and team work.

“We relied heavily on the work of volunteers throughout the pandemic, particularly when more than 20,000 locals found themselves in isolation as COVID moved through the region last year,” Cr O’Keeffe said.

“These individuals and groups worked tirelessly to provide food, medical supplies, support and care to those at home.

“Their work was immeasurable and it was extremely important to council that we acknowledged, recognised and thanked those who gave up their time to help those in need.”